Two weeks ago, I had the main, engine-driven fan replaced, along with the thermostat and housing and the main upper and lower radiator hoses. The car hadn't been running particularly hot (no more than usual), but the mechanic said the fan needed replacing (105,000 miles) and why not do these other things at the same time.

In checking the coolant level a couple days ago, I noticed brown oil blotches floating atop the otherwise bright green coolant.

Did the mechanic use a dirty funnel to fill the coolant, or does it sound like a more ominous problem? The car hasn't been using oil, and there is no indication of water on the dipstick.

Is this a headgasket issue? Can the gasket let oil into the coolant without letting coolant into the combustion chamber?

Thanks for any insight on this.

Brian

Sounds like a head gasket to me. But don't quote me! Wait for a tech to be sure. I wish you good luck because that could get expensive.

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2006 E350 w/ 155k miles (Daily Driver)

Previous:
1993 300E 3.2L Sedan w/ close to about 300k miles
2003 E500 Brilliant Silver (Had 217k miles when totalled!)
1989 300E with 289,000 miles (had for <1 yr while in HI)
03 CLK 500 cabrio (Mom's)
2006 C230k (Dad's)
1999 S420 (Mom's/Dad's)
2000 C230k Sport sedans
2001 CLK320 Cabrio (Mom's)
1995 C280 My First Mercedes-Benz... (155k miles. EXCEPTIONAL AUTOMOBILE. Was Very hard to let go of!)